THE North West’s only nominee for 2022’s National Tourism Superstar Award is making a final plea for votes ahead of the final deadline.

Ahmed Abdelaziz, who works for Windermere Lake Cruises, is one of ten finalists in VisitEngland’s highly prized Tourism Superstar Award.

It celebrates those who go the extra mile to ensure tourists have an amazing visitor experience.

The winner is decided by public ballot which closes at midnight on March 22.

Ahmed, who has worked in Ambleside for five years where he oversees the self-drive boats, said: “It was a very proud moment to be nominated for the Tourism Superstar award.

“It would be wonderful to win the award as it would be a recognition of all the hard work the team at Windermere Lake Cruises has put in over the last two years.”

Ahmed has been on the “campaign trail” in recent days – putting up posters and handing out cards to visitors encouraging them to vote in the awards. “It has been really nice to hear visitors and residents say they have voted for me,” he says. “I just want to put a smile on people’s faces.”

He says the Pandemic has made it a real challenge to make people feel comfortable and safe and happy.

“I try to do that with a smile and I hope it helps! If people would like to cast a vote for me, I would be absolutely delighted.”

The father of two is originally from Egypt but left there for England when terror attacks affected the Egyptian tourism industry.

Nigel Wilkinson, Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, said: “Throughout his time with us Ahmed has never failed to ensure customers and colleagues are always smiling. He exudes enthusiasm which is contagious.

“He worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure he was protecting Windermere Lake Cruises passengers and staff and adhering to all the Covid-19 secure operating procedures the company put in place. We know from their comments our customers have really appreciated his efforts” explains Nigel.

Now in its 10th year, Tourism Superstar is run in partnership with The Mirror newspaper to recognise those who are passionate about their work in tourism. The winner is decided by a public vote which closes at midnight on March 22.

Andrew Stokes, England Director for VisitEngland said: "Tourism Superstar recognises those people who go above and beyond to make visitor experiences in England so special.

“Whether creating a memorable stay in a seaside hotel, adding a touch of showbiz to a tour or an attraction or making sure everyone’s needs are catered for, these individuals truly go the extra mile in their role as tourism ambassadors."

The winner will be announced in the Mirror Newspaper at the end of English Tourism Week on March 26.

To vote click HERE.